​Don't let your home become fuel for a wildfire

Few of nature’s furies can match the sudden destructive power of a wildfire. Fortunately, you can make your home and landscape less vulnerable to fire by creating a fire-buffer zone. Your goals are to minimize fuel sources (that could turn a windblown spark into an inferno) and to give open access to firefighters.

Follow these tips, courtesy of PEMCO and the Department of Natural Resources:

In forested areas, remove trees within 50 feet of the home or other structures. Remove limbs within 15 feet of the ground on all other trees.

In non-forested areas, if your landscape includes trees, remove all limbs within 15 feet of the ground.

Trim any branches that hang over your roof. Branches should never be closer than 15 feet from your chimney – and all chimneys should have a spark screen.

Clear away moss and needles from your roof and gutters.

Remove foliage, fallen branches and twigs, and dry undergrowth that could lead encroaching flames to your home. Be especially vigilant on slopes (fires tend to burn uphill) and the side of your home exposed to prevailing winds.